Chapter 40

Though dragons generally cherished their own kind, they tended to be fiercely independent by nature. Instead of living together, they preferred to build their lairs or homes wherever they pleased, and separately designate a gathering spot for occasional meetups.

“So usually, they construct a pretty large communal meeting place.”

Designed to accommodate various activities, the scale was extravagant even for wealthy dragons.

As I marveled at the lavish, opulent interior, Perseus briefly explained:

“Think of this as something like a community center for old folks.”

His blasé delivery left me momentarily speechless. Seeing my confusion, Perseus chuckled softly before elaborating:

“It’s half a joke, but half true. With no hatchlings being born, it’s mostly just a bunch of old-timers hanging around here.”

Despite being described as “old,” everyone looked incredibly youthful – Perseus himself appeared to be in his early twenties. As I pondered this disparity, a crowd approached us with startling speed.

“…!”

The rapid approach triggered an instinctive urge to retreat, but remembering Chae-a’s safety, I gritted my teeth and shielded her behind me. Voices from the front began calling out:

“Kyaaa! It’s Hae-un! Over here, Hae-un!”

“Hae-un, do you like snacks? Uncle brought some for you!”

“Hey Perseus, is it fair you’re hogging all the attention with Hae-un and Chae-a? Step aside already!”

It felt like bringing viewers into reality might result in a scene exactly like this – everyone enthusiastically offering gifts and shouting excitedly. As boxes of cookies and candies piled up before me, Chae-a clutched my hand tightly and whispered fearfully:

“Chae-a’s scared…”

Though she had previously seemed less afraid of strangers after asking for compliments, apparently that was due to a special situation (the disc throw). Realizing this, I comfortingly patted her hand and gently stroked her head.

“Everyone, Hae-un and Chae-a are feeling overwhelmed. Please give them some space.”

Perseus intervened, dispersing the overly enthusiastic crowd while maintaining our comfort. Apologetic murmurs followed:

“Not sure what came over me… Haven’t seen a hatchling in so long…”

“Auntie’s sorry if we scared you, Hae-un and Chae-a…”

“Still, these kids really are adorable…”

Even after being asked to keep their distance, the dragons continued to watch us fondly from afar, clearly still invested in our well-being. Touched by their consideration, I tentatively stepped forward despite my shyness:

“…Thank you for welcoming us. Please take care of us…”

Knowing proper etiquette required a thank-you, I bowed deeply despite my nerves. The gesture was met with approving cheers from nearby.

“…So embarrassing…”

I hid my flaming face behind my tail as Han Arin noticed my distress and offered comforting pats on my back:

“You did great, Hae-un.”

“…Thank you…”

My mumbled response barely audible, I was lost in a haze of embarrassment when Perseus interjected:

“Shall we proceed to the conference room then?”

Rubbing my heated cheeks, I nodded in agreement…

* * * * *

News of Hae-un’s visit to the dragon elders spread faster than expected. Various factors contributed to this, primarily the immense power and influence wielded by the elder dragons.

“Just their presence can alter the world.”

Even Perseus, relatively young among dragons, possessed ranking 6 strength thanks to his prodigious talent and centuries of experience. The elder dragons, having lived many times longer, were rumored to possess power beyond comprehension…

“Their true strength remains unknown since their retirement.”

However, should they ever re-emerge, catastrophic events would surely follow. They were beings best left undisturbed.

“With Hae-un visiting such powerful figures…”

No one could predict what might happen, causing quite the stir online…

—

[Reasons why you should pay attention to Hae-un and Chae-a meeting the dragon elders]

– Like the saying “Buying an elf? Are you sane?” suggests, longer lifespans typically mean decreased physical strength balanced by increased mana capacity and purity.

– However, dragons break this rule by maintaining physical prowess while aging, resulting in ever-increasing mana density.

– Among these already powerful creatures, those who have lived exceptionally long (around 10,000+ years) are revered as elders.

– Their strength is beyond imagination…

– The central government reportedly requested their retirement, creating a private meeting hall for their leisure.

Despite possessing everything, the elder dragons had one concern: the prolonged absence of new hatchlings. This caused widespread sadness and worry among them.

Then one day, an adorably perfect granddaughter figure seemingly fell from the sky?

Already shocking enough, rumors spread that this granddaughter had been subjected to experiments and torture by unknown parties…

—

[What happens if the elder dragons get truly angry upon hearing about Hae-un’s story?]

At this question, unanimous agreement followed:

“It’s literally game over.”

“If nuclear bombs are incoming, what happens to us?”

“An entire nation might disappear…”

Upon arriving at the conference hall, a formally dressed golem greeted us. Resembling a human closely, it handed me a children’s beverage with a friendly smile:

“Please rest for a moment before I guide you further.”

“…Thank you!”

Interacting with one entity proved far less intimidating than facing a crowd. Feeling slightly more confident, I smiled brightly until Chae-a hugged me, whispering praise:

“Hae-un’s so brave… Stronger and cooler than squirrels!”

Apparently, in Chae-a’s mind, squirrels represented strength and coolness. Flattered by her admiration, I wagged my tail vigorously until the golem returned to escort us.

“The elders are ready. Please enter.”

Tensing slightly, I swallowed nervously as Perseus reassured me with a head pat:

“Don’t worry. If any elder dislikes you – though unlikely – I’ll make sure to protect you.”

Finding immense comfort in his words, I nodded as Perseus playfully pinched my cheek before leading the way.

‘This place is incredible…’

The hallway’s extravagant decorations made me feel unworthy of stepping inside. Just as I hesitated, familiar celebratory music reached my ears.

‘What?’

Instead of classical tunes matching the elegant atmosphere, a lively trot song played – the kind usually heard at elderly birthday parties. Though not unpleasant, the stark contrast made me question my hearing until Perseus groaned:

“Here we go again with the old folks’ music…”

Having dropped the ‘elder’ title altogether, Perseus sighed deeply before opening the intricately carved door, revealing:

[(Grand Celebration) Welcome Hae-un and Chae-a!]

A massive banner greeted us. Stunned into silence, Han Arin couldn’t contain her laughter:

“Dragons aren’t so different from humans after all?”

“Be quiet.”

“Why? Are you embarrassed by the elders?”

“…”

Perseus remained silent, turning away instead. Unsure how to respond, I could only blink repeatedly in disbelief…

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